ABSTRACT

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is a temporary life support method for patients with respiratory and/ or cardiac failure which is unresponsive to medical treatment. Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) is a type of venoarterial ECMO performed quickly during CPR. ECPR is known to reduce mortality if performed timely under adequate conditions. In Turkey, where ECMO support is still in its infancy, we aimed to share our experience with a successful ECPR case. Our patient was a 4 month old girl with failure to thrive and pneumonia who was treated with antibiotics and antiviral therapy along with parenteral nutrition. The baby developed bradicardia and cardiac arrest during attempts for central venous catheterization. The cardiothoracic surgery team responded to the code quickly and cannulated the baby via sternotomy in the unit ( aorta and right atrium cannulation) while the perfusionist primed the circuit with cristalloids. Our patient was stabilized with initiation of ECMO, and she was weaned from ECMO support within 3 days with intact neurological status. ECPR is an effective option for survival in ECMO centers.